TOURS

TOURS

Since 2002 I’ve been guiding “Daycations” from San Diego throughout Southern California and Baja, Mexico.We travel hill and dale finding fun! Doesn’t spending a lazy Saturday sipping vino in the Valle De Guadalupe south of the border, or champagne brunch abroad John Wayne’s private yacht in Newport Beach sound divine??? How ‘bout scoring tickets… to the the hottest theater production in LA, or a gondola getaway to Long Beach? The owner of DayTripper Tours, Myron Stam, his magical staff, and I take care of every detail, allowing you to carpe diem and make an art of living!

This fascinating excursion highlights the rancho era of California history. Your day begins as we travel onto the Camp Pendleton Marine Base for a guided tour of the historic 8,500-sq-ft Santa Margarita Ranch House. This stunning example of early California architecture has been home to the families of 35 Marine Corps generals as well as Pio Pico, the last Mexican governor of California. You’ll enjoy an included lunch at the famous Phil’s BBQ restaurant in San Marcos before continuing on to Leo Carrillo Historic Park. Carrillo was an actor and conservationist whose greatest fame came from his portrayal of Pancho, the mischievous sidekick in The Cisco Kid TV series. You’ll take a guided tour of the Hacienda Ranch House and have free time to explore their visitor center.

Alpaca Hacienda & Keys Creek Lavender Farm — May 13, 2017

What better way to spend the day than with cuddly alpacas among fragrant lavender fields? We’ll begin the morning at the Alpaca Hacienda in Temecula, where you’ll tour this unique farm to learn about the history of the animal, how they are raised and cared for, how the fur is spun into yarn, and even have a chance to feed the alpacas and get some great photos with these adorable creatures! Next, we’ll visit the Keys Creek Lavender Farm in Valley Center, where you’ll enjoy a delicious boxed lunch from Boudin Bakery. After lunch you’ll tour the sprawling lavender fields, be treated to a lavender press demonstration, and enjoy a complimentary glass of lavender lemonade. You’ll also have a chance to browse the quaint gift shop for specialty creations such as lavender shortbread cookie scrub and lavender jelly. On the way home we’ll stop at the iconic Bates Nut Farm for gourmet nuts, candies, and other delicious offerings at their fantastic store.

Join me when we travel to the University of Southern California campus for the world-famous Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. The festival began in 1996 and has since evolved into the largest and most prestigious book festival in the country, attracting more than 150,000 book lovers each year. Held on the campus of USC, the festival features multiple stages hosting literary panels, author book signings and readings, live music and dance performances, culinary demonstrations, discussion panels on some of today’s hottest topics, film screenings followed by Q&A’s, and more. There are also nearly 300 exhibitor booths representing booksellers, literacy & cultural organizations, authors, publishers and museums. Lunch is on your own at the festival.

Hubbell Home & Art Studio With Historic Julian — April 17, 2017

Discover a hidden gem in our nearby Cuyamaca Mountains when you travel with me to the fascinating James Hubbell home and art studio near Julian for an exclusive tour. As a painter, sculptor, stained-glass artist, poet, visionary and architect, James Hubbell’s intent when he began building his mountaintop retreat was to create a home that appeared to grow out of the landscape and blend naturally with the gifts of nature. Granite boulders, soft oak-shaded hills with russet etchings of manzanita influenced the design. Buildings were to fit into the landscape, using existing trees and rocks as precious objects to build around. During your exclusive docent-guided tour you’ll see gardens, artwork, the pool, fountains and several buildings, including the studios where artists will be working, the renowned “Boy’s Home” and the “Chapel.” Your excursion includes time for lunch on your own in downtown Julian.

19th Annual Borrego Desert Gardens & Home Tour — March 18, 2017

I LOVE desert Mid-Century architecture and cannot wait for this springtime excursion to Borrego where we’ll embark on a fascinating tour of famous desert homes and gardens at the height of wildflower season. Sponsored by the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association, the locations of these jewels are kept secret until later, but in past years this annual experience has featured a tour of the James and Helen Copley estate – the former publishers of the San Diego Union-Tribune and owners of Borrego’s La Casa del Zorro Resort. The tour includes a visit to a sprawling cactus garden featuring succulents from around the world set amongst a grove of native desert trees and acacias including African, Australian Willow, and Shoestring, as well as other gardens and homes. We’ll eat lunch at Borrego Springs Resort, and stop at the famous Dudley’s Bakery in Santa Ysabel for an opportunity to purchase fresh baked goodies!

Frida Kahlo Photo Exhibition @ The Bowers Museum — March 4, 2017

Experience the private life of beloved artist Frida Kahlo when we visit the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana to see the exhibition, Frida Kahlo – Her Photos. Offering intimate glimpses of Kahlo’s life, this exhibit showcases a series of images from the artist’s personal archive, which were locked away by a grieving Diego Rivera in Kahlo’s Mexico City family home. More than fifty years later, this treasured collection was revealed to the public. Curated by the distinguished Mexican photographer and historian Pablo Ortiz Monasterio, the exhibit presents 241 of these photographs, all of which are the first and only prints made of the originals. Discover some of the brightest and darkest times in Kahlo’s life while also experiencing a unique view of the tumultuous political climate of the early to mid 20th century. Your day includes time for lunch on your own at the Outlets at Orange; or join me for an all-inclusive Mexican-style lunch at El Torito Restaurant.

Having walk to California’s 21 missions I find this excursion fascinating! It highlights the rancho era of California history. Our day begins as we travel onto the Camp Pendleton Marine Base for a docent tour of the historic 8,500-sq-ft Santa Margarita Ranch House. This stunning example of early California architecture has been home to the families of 35 Marine Corps generals as well as Pio Pico, the last Mexican governor of California. You’ll enjoy an included lunch at the famous Phil’s BBQ restaurant in San Marcos before continuing on to Leo Carrillo Historic Park. Carrillo was an actor and conservationist whose greatest fame came from his portrayal of Pancho, the mischievous sidekick in The Cisco Kid TV series. You’ll take a guided tour of the Hacienda Ranch House and have free time to explore their Visitor Center.

All aboard for a fun Girlfriend Getaway just for you chicas! We’ll motor to Long Beach for afternoon tea featuring sandwiches and scones at the charming Elise’s Tea Room followed by a visit to the Vintage Fashion Expo in Downtown L.A. Fellow fashion divas, designers, costumers, celebrities and fashion editors from all over the globe visit this definitive event now in its 30th year. With over 50 dealers of vintage clothing, accessories and textiles from the late 18th century to the 1990s, you’ll find a wide range of time periods, price levels and every style imaginable – from Classic European couture to timeless American designs. Bring your credit card ☺️.

Christmas Lights Dinner Tour — December 14, 2016

Come along on this unforgettable holiday tour as we seek out some of the most dazzling neighborhoods and public places around San Diego County decorated with millions of twinkling lights, nativity scenes and glittering celebrations of Christmas. We’ll visit the Hotel del Coronado for a look at the giant Christmas tree in the lobby and to marvel at the thousands of white lights outlining this magnificent hotel. Then, put on your “magic glasses” – a fun gift for you to keep – and experience a kaleidoscope of color as we motor through some of the most notable residential areas where entire neighborhoods have coordinated their decorating wizardry into blocks and blocks of magical themes. Along the route, you’ll be treated to a hearty dinner at the popular Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill. Don’t miss this annual Christmas lights tour of America’s Finest City!

Christmas at the Castle Green — December 4, 2016

Tis’ the season for a special holiday treat when you travel with us to the historic Castle Green in Old Pasadena for their annual holiday tour. This is one of the COOLEST holiday tours I’ve guided! Normally closed to the public, this unique Pasadena treasure opens its doors for a single afternoon to reveal the lush history, creative interior design and cultural heritage that lives within its walls. Originally built in 1898 as a hotel, which played host to vacationing tycoons and presidents alike, Castle Green is now the unique private residence of designers, musicians, collectors and artists. As one of Pasadena’s most stunning structures, consisting of Moorish, Spanish and Victorian stylistic elements, it has been used as a location for movies, commercials, TV shows and weddings. You’ll take a self-guided tour of this magnificent building including 25+ private condominiums, the Penthouse and the iconic Bridge.
Your excursion also includes time in Old Pasadena for shopping and lunch on your own.

Salton Sea & San Andreas Fault Experience — November 10, 2016

The Salton Sea is a fascinating body of water in the California desert that came into being decades ago after a break in a levy flooded the valley. Once a thriving vacation destination, it is vastly misunderstood and often used as a political football. Travel with me to this infamous sea and uncover the real story as our expert naturalist guides you through the sea’s rich history, current status, and hopeful future. Here you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amid spectacular views before we journey on through sprawling fields of grapes, citrus and more as we head into the depths of the San Andreas Fault. Our guide will point out obvious signs of upheaval, synclines, anticlines and more; expect to feel very small! We’ll finish our day of discovery at the Wild Bird Center, coming nose to beak with majestic eagles, hawks, falcons, and more. An easy walking tour brings you closer to these magnificent creatures than you could ever achieve in the wild. Don’t miss this fabulous day of flora, fauna, fowl and fun!

In just the past few years, Mexico’s Guadalupe Valley wine trail has exploded into what many are calling the Napa Valley of Mexico. Join me on this gourmet food, wine and cheese excursion to the region and experience the exciting transformation of this once sleepy valley. From elegant restaurants and stunning new architectural masterpieces housing upscale wineries, to artisan cheese shops and boutique hotels nestled amongst lush vineyards, experience firsthand the rapid epicurean evolution of this hidden valley. You’ll sample delectable cheeses at the quaint Cremeria Los Globos cheese factory, settle in for a gourmet luncheon of broiled lamb roasted on an open pit at the lavish El Cielo Winery & dinner house, and enjoy a guided tour and tasting at the majestic new Las Nubes Winery perched high on a hill overlooking the valley. Note: A valid passport is required on this tour.

Best of Los Angeles — September 17, 2016

Experience a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Los Angeles and leave the driving to us! I will take you to one-of-a-kind destinations encompassing historical and architectural gems, cultural treasures, and trend-setting art scenes unlike any other. You’ll visit some of L.A.’s most fascinating and historical landmarks including Watts Towers, Olvera Street, Chinatown, Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral, and the filming sites of some of your favorite TV shows and movies. Other highlights include Staples Center, L.A. Live & the Microsoft Theater, Angel’s Flight, Downtown L.A., the Fashion District, the Flower Market, Walt Disney Concert Hall, , Union Station and more! Lunch is on your own at your choice of the Mexican-themed Olvera Street or at the famous Philippe restaurant, home of the original French Dip Sandwich.

I Must Go Down to the Sea — August 4, 2016

The famous poem by John Masefield that begins, “I must go down to the sea…,” illustrates the powerful call of the ocean. On this refreshing seasonal excursion, we heed the call and travel to the beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula, located west of Long Beach. Our first stop is the Point Fermin Lighthouse, where you’ll tour a graceful Victorian-style building and one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast. Enjoy an included picnic lunch at the scenic Point Fermin Park afterwards. Next, we travel to Wayfarer’s Chapel, a soaring glass chapel designed by the son of Frank Lloyd Wright and perched high on the hillside amongst trees and gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Then, enjoy the gentle ocean breeze on a fascinating one-hour narrated cruise around San Pedro harbor along with a visit to the Los Angeles Maritime Museum. Don’t miss this popular, refreshing summertime excursion!

Come Fly With Me! — July 28, 2016

Come along with me on a tour that features two unique aviation museums. Our first stop is the Flight Path Discovery Center where you’ll experience aviation’s past, present and future through exhibit galleries showcasing model airplanes, flight attendant uniforms, photographs, memorabilia and memories of aviation’s golden years. Step aboard a vintage DC-3, watch the massive jetliners take off and land at LAX, and listen in on live cockpit and control tower communications. Many items are from private collections and have never before been on public display. This afternoon, enjoy an all-inclusive lunch at the Spitfire Grill, with menu items and decor designed just for the aviation lover. After lunch we’ll continue on to the Santa Monica Museum of Flying – former headquarters of Douglas Aircraft Company – where you’ll embark on a docent guided tour. You’ll experience displays and interpretive exhibits, and view nearly two dozen aircraft chronicling over a century of flight, from a replica Wright Flyer all the way to the jet age.

California Wolf Center & Historic Julian — June 30, 2016

The haunting melody of a howling wolf pack is heard in only a handful of states, as wolves have been exterminated from a vast majority of their original range. Though these howling cries are harder to find than they once were, one place to witness their grandeur is at the California Wolf Center. Join me when we visit this fascinating facility nestled in our very own Cuyamaca Mountains. Founded in 1977, the center is one of the largest in the world and houses several packs of gray wolves, including a pack of North American gray wolves as well as multiple packs of Mexican gray wolves. You’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to view the distinctive physical features of these magnificent wolves during a unique educational presentation and guided observation of the wolf packs. Your day includes time on your own for shopping and lunch in the historic town of Julian. Or, for an additional $17, join your tour director for an all inclusive lunch and a slice of famous Julian apple pie at The Rongbranch Restaurant. We’ll also stop at the famous Dudley’s Bakery in Santa Ysabel where you can purchase fresh specialty breads and baked goodies.

Journey with me down the coastline of Baja, Mexico for some colorful shopping and a traditional Puerto Nuevo-style lobster lunch in the cobblestone, seaside village of Puerto Nuevo. Your day begins with a visit to the Rosarito Beach Hotel, a historic landmark and former hideaway for Hollywood Celebrities vacationing in Mexico. Enjoy shopping for colorful curios and Mexican souvenirs in the nearby open-air bazaar, or relax with a margarita at the seaside hotel. Next, we continue on to the internationally known lobster village of Puerto Nuevo, a quaint fishing town that boasts over 30 lobster restaurants within its four block area. You’ll enjoy a welcome margarita and savor a traditional Mexican-style lobster tail lunch complete with tortilla soup, Spanish rice, refried beans and fresh tortillas at the beautiful Villa Ortega’s Restaurant, perched high on the bluffs with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Please note: A valid passport is required on this tour.